Frequently Asked Questions

What does CITB stand for?

Construction Industry Training Board.

What does CSCS stand for?

Construction Skills Certification Scheme.

What does HVACR stand for?

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.

What can I expect from the CITB Health and Safety Environment test?

All applicants who require a CSCS card will need to take the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. The test is also known as the CSCS test, CITB touch-screen test or HS&E. The exam is a 45-minute touch-screen test, with multiple choice questions that are based on various subjects within the construction industry. At the end of the test you will receive a report confirming if you have passed or failed the test. Learn more about the CITB test.

What languages are available for the CITB test?

Tests that are not in English will be delivered in your chosen language by voice-over. You have the option to do the test in any of the following languages:

  • Bulgarian.
  • Czech.
  • English.
  • French.
  • German.
  • Hungarian.
  • Lithuanian.
  • Polish.
  • Portuguese.
  • Punjabi.
  • Romanian.
  • Russian.
  • Spanish.
  • Welsh.

What if I forget to arrange to take the CITB test in another language?

If you have failed to inform us about your language requirements before booking your test it may be too late to arrange this for you. In this instance, we advise you to arrive 1hr before your test time to inform the test centre you want to do the test in another language. Hopefully the centre will be able to help you.

What if I do not have proof of identity for the CITB test?

Photocopies of ID are not accepted. If you do not have a passport or driving licence, you will need to complete a waiver form as proof of identification. We are happy to send you a waiver form on request. You will need to print out the waiver form, complete it and include the appropriate signatures. A list of persons who are authorised or eligible to provide a signature for you are noted on the form. If you require further guidance or need to request a waiver form please contact us on 0208 0505165.

What subjects are included in the CITB test?

You may need to take any or all of the following tests:

  • Operative test.
  • Supervisory test.
  • Demolition test.
  • Lifts and escalators test.
  • Highway work test.
  • Specialist working at height test.
  • Tunnelling test.
  • Plumbing test (JIB).
  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration test (HVACR).

What revision can I do to prepare for the CITB test?

We advise you to thoroughly revise the “Health, Safety and Environment test for Operatives and Specialists” book. The book is also available in DVD format. However there is an exception for Managers, if you are a qualified Manager, you will need to revise the Health, Safety and environment test for managers and professionals” Either genre has its own benefits. If you are often traveling the book may suit you as no technology is required. However, if you want to do some mock practical tests, the DVD is a good choice. Note that the DVD is vital if you are doing the test in a foreign language.

If you need to acquire the book, in either format, or enquire about any other revision material please call us on 0208 0505165.

Is the CITB test difficult?

The test has been created to cover questions in the construction industry that are connected to your trade. Knowledge of specific Health and Safety procedures will be required, which is why we do recommend that you revise for the test. If you study and prepare well, we are sure you will pass. Should you require a revision book or DVD please call us on 0208 0505165.

Where is my nearest CITB test centre?

There are 300 test centres throughout the UK. Visit our test centres page to find your nearest test center or call us on 0208 0505165.

What if I fail the CITB test?

If you fail the test you will have an opportunity to take the test again. You must allow 48 hours after the day of your failed test before you can book a repeat test.

Can I reschedule my CITB test?

If you wish to reschedule your test you must do so within 5 working days before the scheduled test date and time. A £10 admin fee will be charged to reschedule the test. If you fail to contact us within 5 working days before the scheduled test date and time a refund cannot be granted.

Can I cancel my CITB test?

Once you have paid, booked and received confirmation for your CITB test, Health and Safety Awareness course or any other services a refund is no longer possible. However, if you believe your circumstances are unusual and warrant a refund please email our head office team via accounts@constructionguidance.co.uk.

When will I receive my CITB test booking confirmation?

Full confirmation of your booking will be sent to you by email on the same day you booked for your test. It may take 1-8 hours for you to receive confirmation. If you have not received a confirmation please call or email us.

What information is included in my CITB test booking confirmation?

Your booking confirmation will consist of the following details:

  • Confirmed date and time of test.
  • Test centre address and directions.
  • Identification requirements.
  • Test centre conduct.
  • Covid-19 precautions and procedures to follow.
  • Straight after payment an automatic invoice receipt will be sent to you via email.

I have not received my CITB test booking confirmation?

If you have not received an email confirmation within 18 hours of booking your test, please check your spam or junk folder and, if it is not there, please contact us at orders@constructionguidance.co.uk.

What if I have difficulties booking the CITB test online?

Do not hesitate to contact us on 0208 0505165. An advisor will guide you through the booking process.

I have reading and learning difficulties. Can I get extra help with the CITB test?

Yes. If you have dyslexia or any similar learning disabilities we recommend that you book a “voice over” test. You will find the option to request a "voice over" test on our online booking form. Alternatively, please contact us on 0208 0505165 to request a “voice over” test booking.

How is Coronavirus going to affect my CITB test?

Construction Guidance will be following the Government Guidelines pertaining to the recent outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). All test centres are open as usual but are operating at limited capacity to keep all staff and candidates safe. They will also be following government guidelines. All necessary precautions and procedures will be stated in the booking confirmation sent via email. If and when any changes occur, we will issue another statement. As a candidate you must ensure you are prepared and aware of the following:

  • Make sure you meet the health requirements and follow the guidelines explicitly while taking your test.
  • Wear your own mask while you’re at the test centre and throughout your exam. Any surgical or cloth face mask, including a homemade face mask, is acceptable as long as your nose and mouth are fully covered.
  • Face masks will not be provided. If you don't wear your own face mask you will be denied entry.
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from other people in the waiting room and during the admissions process.
  • Wear disposable gloves during testing. Gloves are provided and you will be asked to dispose of them in the facilities provided at the end of the test.
  • Some regional test centres may require you to provide a temperature reading upon arrival.
  • It is your responsibility to ensure that there are no travel restrictions to your chosen test centre.
  • We are advising all customers who wish to book a CITB test to schedule this well in advance to give you maximum opportunity should you need to reschedule the test. Please refer to our cancellation and reschedule policy in our Terms & Conditions or here in this list of Frequently Asked Questions. The cancellation policy still applies to all bookings regardless of coronavirus.
  • Stay safe.

What is the minimum legal age to take the CITB test in the UK?

You must be 16 years old or above to take the CITB test.

Is there any funding available to help with the costs for the CITB test?

Contact your local Jobcentre Plus who will advise you on whether you are eligible to receive any financial assistance and how to apply.

What can I expect from the HVACR Ductwork test and how many correct answers do I need to pass?

The test will consist of 46 questions. You must answer 39 questions correctly in order to pass. The duration of the CITB test is 45 minutes. Learn more about the Ductwork test.

I am taking the Health and Safety Awareness course. What is the difference between the 3hr online course or the one-day in-person course?

To obtain a labourers card, it is a requirement to complete a Health, Safety Awareness course. You have the option to do the 3hr course online or to attend a one-day in-person course at a test centre. One-day in-person courses are taught in a group setting by a qualified instructor. If you are doing the 3hr online course you will need a laptop and a webcam. At the end of the course you will need to complete a brief test. If you have successfully passed the test you will receive a certificate of completion. A 100% pass rate is usually required. Learn more about the course.

How do I order my CSCS card?

There are different types of CSCS cards depending on your qualifications and trade. Our website clearly sets out the steps you must take to get a CSCS card. If you are still unsure about what you must do it is important you fill out a CSCS card application so that an advisor may contact you to advise you. Please call us on 0208 0505165 for further information and advice on how to order the correct CSCS card.

How long will it take for my CSCS card to arrive?

It will take 5-10 days for the card to be processed after completion of a CITB test. In some cases an additional course (the Health and Safety Awareness Course for example) is required. If you are already qualified there is no need to do the course. Once we have received the necessary documentation from you we will process your CSCS card.

Why is it important to get a CSCS card?

CSCS cards are required to gain entry to and work on most construction sites in the UK. CSCS cards come in different colours, each indicating various trades and your skill level. CSCS test bookings can be made through our website. If you require professional advice please call us on 0208 0505165.

My CSCS card has expired and/or I still haven't received it. Can I still work?

Most managers will allow you to work onsite as long as you show proof that a CITB test booking and renewal of your CSCS card has been made. After booking your test, we will send an email confirmation with all the details of the test and a receipt. These emails may be used as proof that you have successfully booked the test and you can show this as evidence to your manager. Doing this will also give a good impression to your employer; it will show you are responsible and have taken the necessary steps in renewing or processing your CSCS card.

Do I need to do a course to obtain a Labourers CSCS card?

Yes. To be eligible to apply for a labourer’s card, you will need to complete a 45-minute touch-screen test in your nearest test centre. You will also need to do a Health and Safety Awareness course. Once you have completed both the test and the course we can process your CSCS card which you should receive in about 5-10 days from the day of your application. Learn more about the Labourers card.

What do I need to apply for a Blue Skilled CSCS card?

You need to have an NVQ2 qualification in the construction industry to be able to access a Blue Skilled Worker CSCS card. Learn more about the Blue Skilled card.

What do I need to apply for a Black Managers CSCS card?

You need to have an NVQ or SVQ 4, 5, 6 or 7 qualification to be able to access a Black Managers CSCS card and you also need to complete a CITB Managers & Professionals test. Learn more about the Black Managers card.

I have a medical condition that does not allow me to wear a mask. What should I do when I attend my CITB test?

If you are exempt from wearing a face mask then you need to call us to arrange for an isolated room where you can sit to take your test alone and inform us about any other special requirements which can only be organised over the phone.